Summertime in Texas can be brutal. Even those of us who are native to Central Texas can struggle to handle the merciless heat. The unceasing 100+ degree temperatures make us sweaty and miserable, but they also pose a larger threat. Extreme heat can impact our physical and mental wellbeing, and the risk is higher for someone with dementia.
If your loved one seems to be having more trouble than usual thinking clearly, you might be wondering, does extreme heat make dementia worse – and can you do anything about it?
Yes, High Temperatures Can Impact Cognitive Function
High temperatures can affect memory, cognition and mood in everyone, but it’s particularly harmful for older adults, especially those with dementia. Extreme heat can make dementia symptoms worse, but the good news is that these effects on cognition are usually temporary. However, keep in mind that exposure to extreme heat over time can have more serious and permanent effects, like worsening cognitive decline.
Virginia Chang, associate professor of social and behavioral sciences at the NYU School of Global Public Health, says that cumulative exposure to extreme heat can “trigger a cascade of events in the brain, including cellular damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress, all of which can exhaust one’s cognitive reserve.”
How To Keep Someone With Dementia Safe in Extreme Heat
Being the caregiver for someone you love can be nerve-racking, especially when their wellbeing might be at risk. How do you know that you’re doing everything you can to keep them safe, healthy and happy? In areas impacted by extreme temperatures, like Central Texas, the dangers of extreme heat are a factor you must consider when caring for someone with dementia.
Learn About Temperature Regulation Problems With Dementia
Have you noticed your loved one having any weird reactions to temperatures – like saying they feel unbearably cold when it’s anything but?
Dementia can cause individuals to lose the ability to regulate their body temperature. So, someone with dementia might complain of being cold – even in the middle of a heat wave. If they’re feeling cold indoors when it’s hot outside, you can serve them hot drinks, help them bundle up in layers or blankets or do whatever else you can to keep them comfortable, as long as the temperature in the home is safe for them to do so.
Make Sure They’re Staying Hydrated
Dehydration is common with dementia. Individuals with dementia often lose the ability to recognize the feeling of thirst. They may not instinctively know how to quench their thirst or let a caregiver know that they need to drink something. If you’re a caregiver for someone with dementia, work drinking water into your loved one’s daily routine.
Encourage Them To Wear the Right Clothing for the Weather
Dress your loved one in, or encourage them to wear, light-colored, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Remind them to apply SPF and wear protective clothing, like a wide-brimmed hat, anytime they head outdoors.
Keep Them Protected From Extreme Heat During the Hottest Part of the Day
Encourage your loved one to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, limiting outdoors time to early morning and the evenings. If the home doesn’t have air conditioning, try to spend those extra hot midday hours in a public air conditioned space, like a public library.
Keep Dementia in Mind When Practicing Heat Safety
Individuals with dementia are especially vulnerable to heat stroke and other heat illnesses. Dementia can cause memory loss, confusion and visual and auditory hallucinations. These symptoms mean that as the disease progresses, individuals with dementia must be monitored more closely to ensure their safety.
Read More Hot Weather Safety Tips for Dementia Here.
Our Team Is Committed To Keeping Our Residents Safe in Extreme Heat
The leadership and staff at Sundara are dedicated to keeping our residents safe, happy and healthy year-round, but we take special precautions during times of extreme weather. You can rest easy knowing your loved one is in good hands.
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